Learning Mentor
A message from our Learning Mentor . . .
My name is Mr Simpson and I joined the Ridgeway team as the new Learning Mentor in October 2019. For the last 12 years I have been the Inclusion Manager and Learning Mentor at Reigate Park Primary and prior to that I have worked in other childcare settings such as children’s homes, schools and nurseries. Outside of my working life I’m a big fan of music and will probably be trying to sneak my guitar into school at the first opportunity.
I’m very excited to be working at Ridgeway and I can’t wait to get to know the children and all of you. Please do feel free to come up and say hello when you see me.
Learning Mentor Support
We aim to provide non-judgemental support for all young people and their families within school and particularly at vulnerable times. The support for your child may be within the class room; on the playground; in the Learning Mentor room or the Rainbow Room; on an individual basis or as part of a small group. Most children come weekly but some come more or less frequently but they all come for as many sessions as they need.
My key role is to provide for the needs of children who may be facing barriers to learning, both inside and outside the school. We work with pupils, parents, carers, families, teachers, the school and other agencies, helping to construct a flexible and responsive support network depending on individual needs. Areas in school that we particularly focus on include:
- Self-esteem and confidence building
- Social skills and friendship groups
- New to English
- Family bereavement
- Attendance and punctuality
- Motivation
- Divorce or separation
In most cases, the staff in school will identify children who need extra support. If your child is referred to me, we will contact you as the significance of positive and active participation by parents and carers cannot be overstated in the future development of children.
Please also know that we are available to provide confidential support and advice for parents or carers. If you have any worries or concerns about your child or a family situation please do not hesitate to contact me as I may be able to offer some help and advice. If there is a specific topic that you require assistance with such as: bedtime routines or feeding or eating problems please do get in touch. We also work closely with local professionals to provide parenting sessions and family workshops here at the school.
No matter how small your query may be, I am here to help. Please either ring the school or email me at rsimpson@ridgeway.derby.sch.uk